Often I see some massage therapist’s with a nationally certified credential behind their name. What does this mean and is it important to look for when searching for a therapist?
Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, NCTMB as seen written behind a massage therapist name, sets high standards for massage and bodywork practitioners. It protects consumers and employers by ensuring that certified practitioners have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their job – and that they are committed to upholding NCBTMB’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. NCMTMB is an independent, private, organization established to set high standards of ethical and professional practice through a recognized credible credentialing program.
A nationally certified massage therapist represents the highest professional credential in the field. This therapist has completed a minimum of 500 hours of instruction, demonstrates mastery of core skills, abilities and knowledge, and has passed a standardized exam. This credential will help gain the therapists’ recognition and visibility, and will also increase employment opportunities.
So, is it important when searching for a good massage? Yes, I feel that it is a good thing when doing research for a therapist, yet it’s completely up to that individual. I personally have received great treatments from non-nationally certified therapists. Yet, it does show continued advancement in the profession.
Brian A. Hrindo, LMT, NCTMB
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Winter Warm-up
What is the best way to get in shape for winter sports? Where can I find a sample winter warm-up program to get started?
By: Rebecca L. Deal, MSPT
A winter warm-up program designed to best prepare your muscles to hit the slopes must contain three components: stretching, strengthening, and balance training. A basic five-minute stretching session prior to winter activity is important for several reasons. Stretching is the key to injury prevention. Muscles tighten in response to the frigid Tahoe temperatures. A stretching warm-up helps counteract the muscle tension caused by cold weather, acting to elongate the tightened muscle fibers. A correct warm-up raises body temperature, increases blood flow, and promotes oxygen delivery to the muscles. This increase in blood flow leads to higher energy levels, which helps to prepare the mind and body for upcoming exercise.
A proper winter strengthening program helps develop motor programs that allow for optimal performance with adequate endurance. When evaluating which major muscle groups are involved in skiing and require proper strengthening, consider which muscles are most exhausted after a long day on the hill. Quads? Hamstrings? Calves? Core? Hip flexors? Quadriceps and hamstrings are reciprocal muscles that work together, contracting to hold the prolonged squatted riding position. Calf muscles steer the edges of the skis and allow for optimal maneuverability. Core muscles are engaged to assist with balance reactions on uneven terrain. Hip flexor muscles are constantly activated for forward progression of the skis.
Uneven terrain like snow and ice challenge proprioception (the perceived position of a joint in space). Practicing balancing on uneven surfaces in a gym where conditions are safe can help the joints learn to anticipate and react to prepare for an unanticipated event on snow. Practicing where conditions are safe can help increase confidence and may convince you to challenge yourself that much harder next time your are on the slopes without fear of injury. To learn more about specific stretching, strengthening, and balance training techniques, be sure to attend the next free ski clinic offered at North Tahoe Physical Therapy on November 20th at 6pm. Call the clinic at (775)831-6600 or visit our website at www.northtahoept.com for additional details.
By: Rebecca L. Deal, MSPT
A winter warm-up program designed to best prepare your muscles to hit the slopes must contain three components: stretching, strengthening, and balance training. A basic five-minute stretching session prior to winter activity is important for several reasons. Stretching is the key to injury prevention. Muscles tighten in response to the frigid Tahoe temperatures. A stretching warm-up helps counteract the muscle tension caused by cold weather, acting to elongate the tightened muscle fibers. A correct warm-up raises body temperature, increases blood flow, and promotes oxygen delivery to the muscles. This increase in blood flow leads to higher energy levels, which helps to prepare the mind and body for upcoming exercise.
A proper winter strengthening program helps develop motor programs that allow for optimal performance with adequate endurance. When evaluating which major muscle groups are involved in skiing and require proper strengthening, consider which muscles are most exhausted after a long day on the hill. Quads? Hamstrings? Calves? Core? Hip flexors? Quadriceps and hamstrings are reciprocal muscles that work together, contracting to hold the prolonged squatted riding position. Calf muscles steer the edges of the skis and allow for optimal maneuverability. Core muscles are engaged to assist with balance reactions on uneven terrain. Hip flexor muscles are constantly activated for forward progression of the skis.
Uneven terrain like snow and ice challenge proprioception (the perceived position of a joint in space). Practicing balancing on uneven surfaces in a gym where conditions are safe can help the joints learn to anticipate and react to prepare for an unanticipated event on snow. Practicing where conditions are safe can help increase confidence and may convince you to challenge yourself that much harder next time your are on the slopes without fear of injury. To learn more about specific stretching, strengthening, and balance training techniques, be sure to attend the next free ski clinic offered at North Tahoe Physical Therapy on November 20th at 6pm. Call the clinic at (775)831-6600 or visit our website at www.northtahoept.com for additional details.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
What the are most important elements to getting in ski shape?
Ask the Professional
November 19, 2008
Jane O’Brien, PT, MSPT North Tahoe Physical Therapy clinic
What are the most important elements to getting in shape for ski season?
The first thing that comes to mind for getting in “ski shape” is strengthening. I believe everyone would agree that strengthening of the lower extremity or leg muscles is top on the list. The legs are doing most of the work during a ski or snowboard run, so, focus strength training here. The muscles to emphasize are the quads (front of the thighs) the hamstrings (back of the thighs), the calf muscles, and the glutes. It is very important for one to gain strength of the proximal leg muscles, those closest to the trunk, typically called the hips. The stronger one is in the hip region, the less strain will occur across the knee joint.
A great exercise for the whole lower extremity is the squat. This uses the buttocks, the quads, the calves and the hamstrings. Also great are lunges and leg presses. These exercises directly correlate to the motions used in telemark skiing and downhill skiing. Bicycling is a wonderful outdoor activity for lower extremities. Lastly, calf raises (going up and down on tip toes) is great for balance and calf strength.
Besides strength, flexibility is highly important for all activities. A tight muscle is more likely to tear or be strained because there is no slack in the system. Stretches create length in the muscle and allow for freedom of motion.
While everyone agrees that training the lower extremity muscles is highly important, I also want to emphasize the importance of training the trunk or core muscles. The trunk is the “power center” of the body. These muscles include, among others, the abdominals, the iliopsoas, the glutes, hamstrings, and the spinal extensors. A strong core helps with speed, balance, strength, and power, quickly changing directions, improvement of skill level and prevention of injury. A training program needs to consist of trunk flexibility and strength conditioning. Having a strong and flexible core allows one to twist, turn and stabilize the body during the downhill journey. According to Douglas Brooks, MS, who wrote Effective Strength Training, the trunk is the base or foundation of the body. A body is only as strong as its weakest link. A body needs a strong base from which to direct its energy. If the core is weak, it leads to poor performance or worse, injury.
For more details on the top ten ways to get in shape for ski season, go to www.northtahoept.com and download our free report on “ Top Ten Ways to Get in Shape for the Ski Season.”
November 19, 2008
Jane O’Brien, PT, MSPT North Tahoe Physical Therapy clinic
What are the most important elements to getting in shape for ski season?
The first thing that comes to mind for getting in “ski shape” is strengthening. I believe everyone would agree that strengthening of the lower extremity or leg muscles is top on the list. The legs are doing most of the work during a ski or snowboard run, so, focus strength training here. The muscles to emphasize are the quads (front of the thighs) the hamstrings (back of the thighs), the calf muscles, and the glutes. It is very important for one to gain strength of the proximal leg muscles, those closest to the trunk, typically called the hips. The stronger one is in the hip region, the less strain will occur across the knee joint.
A great exercise for the whole lower extremity is the squat. This uses the buttocks, the quads, the calves and the hamstrings. Also great are lunges and leg presses. These exercises directly correlate to the motions used in telemark skiing and downhill skiing. Bicycling is a wonderful outdoor activity for lower extremities. Lastly, calf raises (going up and down on tip toes) is great for balance and calf strength.
Besides strength, flexibility is highly important for all activities. A tight muscle is more likely to tear or be strained because there is no slack in the system. Stretches create length in the muscle and allow for freedom of motion.
While everyone agrees that training the lower extremity muscles is highly important, I also want to emphasize the importance of training the trunk or core muscles. The trunk is the “power center” of the body. These muscles include, among others, the abdominals, the iliopsoas, the glutes, hamstrings, and the spinal extensors. A strong core helps with speed, balance, strength, and power, quickly changing directions, improvement of skill level and prevention of injury. A training program needs to consist of trunk flexibility and strength conditioning. Having a strong and flexible core allows one to twist, turn and stabilize the body during the downhill journey. According to Douglas Brooks, MS, who wrote Effective Strength Training, the trunk is the base or foundation of the body. A body is only as strong as its weakest link. A body needs a strong base from which to direct its energy. If the core is weak, it leads to poor performance or worse, injury.
For more details on the top ten ways to get in shape for ski season, go to www.northtahoept.com and download our free report on “ Top Ten Ways to Get in Shape for the Ski Season.”
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Physical Therapy Hows & Whys
Ask the Professional
October 21, 2008
Jane O’Brien, MSPT
North Tahoe Physical Therapy
Is Physical Therapy a good way to get started on an exercise program if you have been inactive for a long period of time or is a personal trainer a better option?
It is always best to consult with your doctor before beginning an exercise after prolonged inactivity. Your doctor will perform a complete physical and determine if you will be at risk or if you are safe to begin an exercise program. If the MD gives you the “Go Ahead”, physical therapy is your best option for proceeding.
The PT will evaluate your body before developing an exercise program. Tests may include an assessment of muscle strength in your arms, legs and core. He or she will assess your flexibility, your ligamentous stability, your range of motion in your joints, your endurance level, and your current fitness level. The PT will measure our blood pressure and your heart rate at rest and determine an appropriate activity level for your exercise program. He or she can tailor the program towards your specific fitness goals, for example, weight loss, improved endurance, strength gains, toning or others you may have in mind. If you wish, the PT can also measure your body fat level and develop a plan to reduce that level.
One benefit of beginning a fitness program with a PT is that you are being medically monitored. As you proceed with your fitness program, the PT will assess your heart rate and blood pressure before, during and after activity. Your exercises will be adjusted accordingly. If you have any previous injuries, alert the PT so that area can be protected in your program to prevent a flare up. Additionally, the PT can add exercise to your program to rehabilitate the injured area.
One last advantage of a fitness program which is performed under the direction of a Physical Therapist is the price. A medically guided program may be covered under your health insurance. This means that you may only need to pay for your copayment or coinsurance. If, however, you do not have insurance, many Physical Therapists provide personal training to their clients. The cost may be slightly higher than the fee a personal trainer may charge (about $10-$20 on average). But, the Physical Therapist is a medical professional who has either a Masters or a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and is trained in the biomechanics of the body, muscle structure and function, injuries and rehab, anatomy and physiology, orthopedics, and strengthening and conditioning.
North Tahoe Physical Therapy works with many clients for reconditioning programs both through insurance and on a cash payment basis. We also offer personal training and Pilates exercise programs. Call us or stop by at 889 Alder Avenue, suite 105, Incline Village, NV 89451. 775-831-6600 Visit us on the web at www.northtahoept.com.
October 21, 2008
Jane O’Brien, MSPT
North Tahoe Physical Therapy
Is Physical Therapy a good way to get started on an exercise program if you have been inactive for a long period of time or is a personal trainer a better option?
It is always best to consult with your doctor before beginning an exercise after prolonged inactivity. Your doctor will perform a complete physical and determine if you will be at risk or if you are safe to begin an exercise program. If the MD gives you the “Go Ahead”, physical therapy is your best option for proceeding.
The PT will evaluate your body before developing an exercise program. Tests may include an assessment of muscle strength in your arms, legs and core. He or she will assess your flexibility, your ligamentous stability, your range of motion in your joints, your endurance level, and your current fitness level. The PT will measure our blood pressure and your heart rate at rest and determine an appropriate activity level for your exercise program. He or she can tailor the program towards your specific fitness goals, for example, weight loss, improved endurance, strength gains, toning or others you may have in mind. If you wish, the PT can also measure your body fat level and develop a plan to reduce that level.
One benefit of beginning a fitness program with a PT is that you are being medically monitored. As you proceed with your fitness program, the PT will assess your heart rate and blood pressure before, during and after activity. Your exercises will be adjusted accordingly. If you have any previous injuries, alert the PT so that area can be protected in your program to prevent a flare up. Additionally, the PT can add exercise to your program to rehabilitate the injured area.
One last advantage of a fitness program which is performed under the direction of a Physical Therapist is the price. A medically guided program may be covered under your health insurance. This means that you may only need to pay for your copayment or coinsurance. If, however, you do not have insurance, many Physical Therapists provide personal training to their clients. The cost may be slightly higher than the fee a personal trainer may charge (about $10-$20 on average). But, the Physical Therapist is a medical professional who has either a Masters or a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and is trained in the biomechanics of the body, muscle structure and function, injuries and rehab, anatomy and physiology, orthopedics, and strengthening and conditioning.
North Tahoe Physical Therapy works with many clients for reconditioning programs both through insurance and on a cash payment basis. We also offer personal training and Pilates exercise programs. Call us or stop by at 889 Alder Avenue, suite 105, Incline Village, NV 89451. 775-831-6600 Visit us on the web at www.northtahoept.com.
$35.00 Therapeutic Tune-Ups
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Jane O’Brien, MSPT
North Tahoe Physical Therapy
775-831-6600
775-831-6697
ntptclinic@sbcglobal.net
www.northtahoept.com
North Tahoe Physical Therapy Announces $35 Therapeutic Tune-ups as a Cost Effective Way to Treat Minor Aches, Pains and Strains
Incline Village, Nevada August 1, 2007
Therapeutic Tune- ups are a low cost way to treat minor aches or pains before they become more severe. There is no insurance involved which means that the client does not need to see the MD first for a prescription before they can get treatment from a Physical Therapist. This saves not only time but money. Direct access means that the client can simply walk in or call for an appointment time with the PT and get treated, often on the same day.
Therapeutic Tune-ups are appropriate for someone who twisted an ankle on a hike, someone who awoke with a kink in their neck, or someone who strained their shoulder playing with their children. These would be the people who think, “If I could just have someone rub my neck or treat my shoulder today, then the problem can be nipped in the bud before it gets bad.” NTPT provides Therapeutic tune-ups Monday-Friday 8-5:30 for $35.
“Many people either do not have insurance benefits or they have a very high deductible. Thus, Physical Therapy can be cost prohibitive”, said Jane O’Brien, MSPT, owner and director of North Tahoe Physical Therapy. “We have created a service which allows for a client to receive a 15 minute treatment for minor aches, pains, and strains for a very cost-effective price. “ Our Therapeutic Tune-ups serve 2 purposes: one is to enable a client to receive treatment shortly after they recognize the need. “Often, a shorter wait between injury and treatment means a quicker recovery,” said O’Brien. The second purpose is to recognize an injury that requires more intense medical attention and direct the client in the appropriate direction. For example (x-rays, physician, etc). For additional information on Therapeutic Tune-ups, contact North Tahoe Physical Therapy at 775-831-6600 or visit our web site www.northtahoept.com.
Contact:
Jane O’Brien, MSPT
North Tahoe Physical Therapy
775-831-6600
775-831-6697
ntptclinic@sbcglobal.net
www.northtahoept.com
North Tahoe Physical Therapy Announces $35 Therapeutic Tune-ups as a Cost Effective Way to Treat Minor Aches, Pains and Strains
Incline Village, Nevada August 1, 2007
Therapeutic Tune- ups are a low cost way to treat minor aches or pains before they become more severe. There is no insurance involved which means that the client does not need to see the MD first for a prescription before they can get treatment from a Physical Therapist. This saves not only time but money. Direct access means that the client can simply walk in or call for an appointment time with the PT and get treated, often on the same day.
Therapeutic Tune-ups are appropriate for someone who twisted an ankle on a hike, someone who awoke with a kink in their neck, or someone who strained their shoulder playing with their children. These would be the people who think, “If I could just have someone rub my neck or treat my shoulder today, then the problem can be nipped in the bud before it gets bad.” NTPT provides Therapeutic tune-ups Monday-Friday 8-5:30 for $35.
“Many people either do not have insurance benefits or they have a very high deductible. Thus, Physical Therapy can be cost prohibitive”, said Jane O’Brien, MSPT, owner and director of North Tahoe Physical Therapy. “We have created a service which allows for a client to receive a 15 minute treatment for minor aches, pains, and strains for a very cost-effective price. “ Our Therapeutic Tune-ups serve 2 purposes: one is to enable a client to receive treatment shortly after they recognize the need. “Often, a shorter wait between injury and treatment means a quicker recovery,” said O’Brien. The second purpose is to recognize an injury that requires more intense medical attention and direct the client in the appropriate direction. For example (x-rays, physician, etc). For additional information on Therapeutic Tune-ups, contact North Tahoe Physical Therapy at 775-831-6600 or visit our web site www.northtahoept.com.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Massage and Chronic Pain
Can massage help me with chronic pain that I have had for years?
By: Brian Hrindo, LMT
Therapeutic and deep tissue massage and bodywork can not only relieve acute symptoms but can also affect a change in chronic pain that you may have been experiencing on and off for years. In some cases, massage is the most beneficial tool used to deal with these ongoing discomforts.As with anything, it may take several sessions to relieve symptoms of chronic pain. You didn’t develop these pains overnight, so they may take more than one session to relieve. As you begin to treat your condition, it may be important to be treated several times before you can transition to a less frequent schedule for health maintenance. Please be sure to share specifics with your massage therapist to develop the best plan for you.Massage therapy is particularly effective in treating the chronic pains experienced as a result of exercise, fibromyalgia, and job related discomforts (i.e. working at a computer, sitting or standing for long periods of time). I have the experience and training to facilitate your bodies healing process and look forward to ridding your body of the pain and discomfort that keep you from enjoying a healthy lifestyle in Lake Tahoe. Massage should not only be looked upon as a commodity, but as preventative maintenance on your body’s tissues and subsequent organs which is one of the best ways to stay out of your doctors’ waiting rooms.
By: Brian Hrindo, LMT
Therapeutic and deep tissue massage and bodywork can not only relieve acute symptoms but can also affect a change in chronic pain that you may have been experiencing on and off for years. In some cases, massage is the most beneficial tool used to deal with these ongoing discomforts.As with anything, it may take several sessions to relieve symptoms of chronic pain. You didn’t develop these pains overnight, so they may take more than one session to relieve. As you begin to treat your condition, it may be important to be treated several times before you can transition to a less frequent schedule for health maintenance. Please be sure to share specifics with your massage therapist to develop the best plan for you.Massage therapy is particularly effective in treating the chronic pains experienced as a result of exercise, fibromyalgia, and job related discomforts (i.e. working at a computer, sitting or standing for long periods of time). I have the experience and training to facilitate your bodies healing process and look forward to ridding your body of the pain and discomfort that keep you from enjoying a healthy lifestyle in Lake Tahoe. Massage should not only be looked upon as a commodity, but as preventative maintenance on your body’s tissues and subsequent organs which is one of the best ways to stay out of your doctors’ waiting rooms.
Massage and Soreness
ASK THE PROFESSIONAL
I just had a massage yesterday, why am I so sore today?
Chances are it was the bodywork you experienced the day before, and it’s perfectly okay. Yes, soreness can be an after-effect of the treatment and it is common to experience it. Soreness or tenderness can result from the pressure used to release the restrictions in your body’s tissue, and also can be a result of under-hydration either before or after the treatment. If the body is not being properly hydrated after the session to flush out the toxins, such as lactic acid, they may be re-deposited into the muscular system causing tenderness. A great approach would to be properly hydrated prior to your treatment by drinking 2-3 glasses in the hours before your appointment. Water is necessary for the liver to filter out the toxins and chemicals from our body, food, and medications.
A professional massage is more than an ordinary back rub. The reason that massage therapy is so effective is that it physically breaks up the restrictions in the muscle tissue causing pain. It is very much like doing a workout. If the muscles are not used to it, they often respond with some soreness. This should only last a day or two, if it does last longer, speak with your therapist about adjusting the treatment. However, just as with exercise, when your body adjusts to having this type of workout your physical response will also be less intense. As a therapist, I want to know how the body is feeling after the soreness does subside.
I just had a massage yesterday, why am I so sore today?
Chances are it was the bodywork you experienced the day before, and it’s perfectly okay. Yes, soreness can be an after-effect of the treatment and it is common to experience it. Soreness or tenderness can result from the pressure used to release the restrictions in your body’s tissue, and also can be a result of under-hydration either before or after the treatment. If the body is not being properly hydrated after the session to flush out the toxins, such as lactic acid, they may be re-deposited into the muscular system causing tenderness. A great approach would to be properly hydrated prior to your treatment by drinking 2-3 glasses in the hours before your appointment. Water is necessary for the liver to filter out the toxins and chemicals from our body, food, and medications.
A professional massage is more than an ordinary back rub. The reason that massage therapy is so effective is that it physically breaks up the restrictions in the muscle tissue causing pain. It is very much like doing a workout. If the muscles are not used to it, they often respond with some soreness. This should only last a day or two, if it does last longer, speak with your therapist about adjusting the treatment. However, just as with exercise, when your body adjusts to having this type of workout your physical response will also be less intense. As a therapist, I want to know how the body is feeling after the soreness does subside.
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